RAIL enthusiasts are jubilant after their ambitious plans to rejuvenate a neglected stretch of line were given the green light.

The Wensleydale Railway Association last week won approval for their scheme to put Leeming Bar station back on line as a working station.

The buildings are presently used as offices for the association and housing - but trains could now be stopping there in the summer.

Hambleton District Council's development control committee approved plans for alterations to the building to create a ticket office and waiting room.

The scheme also includes fencing, car parking, a temporary outside toilet block, disabled toilet and disabled access.

Aiskew Parish Council had withdrawn its previous objection and was in favour of the project, which was also backed by planners.

The Wensleydale Railway Association's property director, Angus Maude, said: "I am absolutely delighted it has been approved."

"We are hopeful that all the regulatory approvals and the lease with Railtrack will be completed within the next few weeks.

"We hope to run some trains during the summer season but as with all these things, there is no guarantee on the time scale at the moment.